In parts totally overblown. Throughout almost entirely inaccurate. But the director pulls it out of the garbage fire, holding your interest in an emotional rollercoaster that largely falls on the right side of absurdity. Good casting goes a long way here.

My condolences to anyone who lives in a society with no safety net if you fall on hard times. Even the hint of these sort of deprivations is pretty terrifying. How many Chris Gardners end up with substance abuse problems, untreated illnesses and with their kids taken into care. But this Chris Gardner managed to stay afloat through a combination of hard work, ability and blind luck - so just enjoy the film and try not to think about what happens to his equivalents who never get that lucky break.

7/10